I just picked up a set of new Crane Gold Race roller rockers, and am wondering on what is the easiest way to adjust the valves. They're for my 396 with 1.7ratio. Any help is appreciated. Thanks
DJ

DJ, The least messy, and accurate at the same time method is as follows: First, disconnect the ignition so the engine won't start when you have a helper bump the starter switch as you watch the position of the valves. When the intake valve for #1 cylinder is starting to close, set the exhaust for that cylinder. Next, following the firing order (18436572)go to #8 and do the same thing, that is set the exhaust when the intake is starting to close. Go through the firing order setting the exhaust valves this way. After the exhausts have been set, do the intakes the same way, but this time it is when the exhaust is starting to open you set the intake. Remember, when the exhaust is starting to open, set the intake, and when the intake is starting to close, set the exhaust. With an aftermarket performance cam you can get into trouble trying to use a procedure you might read in a Chilton's or similar manual. Setting the valves in this manner allows you to be on the base circle of the cam. If you are changing your rockers do them one at a time with this valve setting procedure and you will save time and be more organized. It obviously dosen't matter if you start with the intake or exhaust but setting them in this order will be much quicker and will save your starter. You didn't mention if you had solid or hydraulic lifters. If they are solid set them to the cam manufacturers specs. With solids it makes a difference if the motor is hot or cold, and the cam specs are usually for a hot engine. I've always liked to set them when it is cold so I don't burn my hands. If you do them cold set them .002 closer than the spec. For hydraulics usually a quarter to one half turn tighter than zero lash works well. Find zero lash by feeling the pushrod as you are tightening the rocker adjustment nut and the instant there is no slop you are at zero lash. Remember to lube your new parts liberaly and you should be fine.

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